zai2仔
Jyutpingzai2
Yalejái
Definition
A son; a male child raised by someone.
colloquialfamilypeople
How it's used
Beyond referring to a son, this character is an incredibly versatile suffix used to denote smallness or affection. It is frequently attached to nouns to indicate that something is small, such as 凳仔 for a small stool or 匙羹仔 for a teaspoon. When used as a suffix for people, it can sound endearing or casual, but be careful as it can sometimes sound condescending if used toward someone you do not know well.
Measure word
go3個goExamples
How old is your eldest son this year?
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse the noun 仔 with the diminutive suffix. While they share the same character, the context usually makes it clear whether you are talking about a child or just a small object.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- NegationHow to say no, not, didn't, and don't in Cantonese. The four main negation words and when to use each one.
- Numbers and moneyCounting, talking about money, and asking how much things cost. Includes the two words for two and the everyday words for dollars and cents.
- Aspect markersCantonese has no tenses, but it does have aspect markers. Learn how zo2, gwo3, gan2, and hai2 dou6 show completion, experience, and ongoing action.
